MT 260 Factory Floor Networks

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Introduces the fundamentals of industrial networks on the factory floor for the connection of programmable logic controllers and other industrial appliances together. Explains the various needs for specific network protocols in a harsh environment, low-latency, and safety-driven facilities. Covers current, potential future, and legacy networks, and interconnections of those systems, as well as safety awareness of factory floor personnel.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain the similarities and differences between industrial networks and enterprise networks.
Demonstrate the proper configuration of industrial appliances within the factory floor network and proper topologies.
Explain the necessity of legacy networks and their integration into newer systems for factory operations.

Content Outline

Hardware
- Background to cables
- Noise and interference on cables
- RS-232 interface standard
- RS-485 interface standard
- Twisted pair cables and fiber optic cables
- Modems
  - Introduction and principles
  - Asynchronous/synchronous
  - Modulation techniques
  - Error detection and correction
  - Troubleshooting
Protocols
- Fieldbus
- Modbus
- DNP3.0
- TCP
- CIP
Local Area Network (LAN) Technologies
- Fieldbus
- Modbus
- DNP3.0
- TCP
- CIP
Wide Area Network (WAN)Technologies
- Digital hierarchies, T1 and E1
- Packet switching
- Legacy WAN
  - Frame relay
  - ATM
  - SDH/sonnet
- OLE for Process Control (OPC)